Mina – Moliendo Cafè (LP)

Mina’s fourth studio album, Moliendo café is a vibrant time capsule capturing the iconic Italian singer at a crucial transitional period in her early career. Anchored by its legendary, exotic title track, the LP serves as an excellent exhibition of her transition from a roaring "urlatrice" (screamer) into a sophisticated pop songstress.

This vinyl reissue by Vinyl Ermitage reserves the mono charm of an era where Italian pop was beginning to embrace global rhythms.

The album's crown jewel is Mina's interpretation of the famous Venezuelan songMoliendo Cafè. Driven by a driving tropical rhythm and brassy arrangements, her performance is fiery, confident, and texturally rich. Tracks like "Champagne Twist" and "Cubetti Di Ghiaccio" capitalize on the early 1960s dance crazes. They are wonderfully energetic and show off Mina's impeccable sense of timing and vocal agility. 

Mina takes a bold step with a cover of George Gershwin's "Summertime". While it lacks the deep blues maturity she would develop by the late '60s, her powerful vocal delivery offers a fascinating, dramatic Italian take on the standard. Songs like "Sciummo" (a Neapolitan classic) and "Soltanto Ieri" offer a softer contrast, proving that even early in her career, she possessed the emotional depth required for intense ballads.

Label: Vinyl Ermitage

Country: Italy

Media Condition: Mint (M)
Sleeve Condition: Mint (M)